Where the filter sits and what it does

Samsung refrigerators use a water filter to clean the water that comes out of the dispenser and feeds the ice maker. The filter catches sediment, chlorine, and other particles that affect taste and odor. Most Samsung models keep the filter in one of two places: inside the fridge compartment (usually in the upper right corner behind a small panel) or underneath the fridge in the base grille.

The filter itself is a cylindrical cartridge about 6 inches long. You do not need tools to change it — the cartridge twists out by hand and a new one twists back in. The whole job takes less than five minutes.

Key Takeaways

  • Samsung fridge filters are located either inside the upper right corner of the fridge or in the base grille underneath, depending on your model.
  • The filter twists counterclockwise to remove and clockwise to install — no tools needed.
  • After installing a new filter, run water through the dispenser for 2 to 3 minutes to flush air and debris from the line.
  • Most Samsung filters need replacement every 6 months, though this depends on your water quality and how much you use the dispenser.
  • You can find your exact model number on the sticker inside the fridge or on the back wall, which tells you which filter cartridge to buy.

Finding your filter location and model number

Open your refrigerator and look in the upper right corner. If you see a small cylindrical cartridge behind a plastic panel or cover, your filter is inside the fridge. If not, close the fridge and look at the base grille — the panel at the bottom front of the fridge. The filter may be behind a removable grille panel there instead.

Write down your model number before you buy a replacement. You will find it on a sticker inside the fridge (usually on the side wall or ceiling) or on the back of the fridge. It starts with "RF" or "RS" and looks like "RF28R7201SR". This number tells you which filter cartridge fits your exact model, because Samsung makes several types and they are not interchangeable.

Removing the old filter

If your filter is inside the fridge, open the fridge door and locate the cartridge in the upper right corner. You may see a plastic cover or panel in front of it. Gently pull or twist this cover counterclockwise to remove it and expose the filter cartridge underneath.

Grip the filter cartridge firmly and twist it counterclockwise (to the left) until it stops. It should come free in your hand. Some water may drip out — place a small cup or towel underneath to catch it. Do not force it; if it does not turn easily, make sure you are twisting counterclockwise and not clockwise.

If your filter is in the base grille, open the grille panel at the bottom front of the fridge by pressing the release tabs on either side or pulling it straight toward you. The filter cartridge will be visible inside. Twist it counterclockwise and pull it straight out toward you.

Installing the new filter

Remove the new filter from its packaging and check that the rubber gasket (the ring at the top) is in place and not damaged. If it is cracked or missing, the filter will leak. Hold the cartridge upright and align it with the opening where the old one came out.

Push the filter in straight and twist it clockwise (to the right) until it stops. You should feel resistance and hear a slight click when it seats fully. Do not over-tighten — stop when you feel it catch. If your filter was inside the fridge, replace the plastic cover by twisting it clockwise until it seats. If it was in the base grille, close the grille panel by pushing it back in until it clicks.

Flushing the line after installation

After you install a new filter, air and loose particles are trapped in the water line. Run water through the dispenser for 2 to 3 minutes without stopping. The water may come out cloudy or taste slightly off at first — this is normal and clears as you flush the line.

If you have an ice maker, run a few cycles to flush ice as well. Throw away the first batch of ice cubes it makes. After flushing, the water and ice should taste normal again.

How often to replace the filter

Samsung recommends replacing the filter every 6 months under normal use. If you use the water dispenser and ice maker heavily, or if your tap water is hard or has high sediment, you may need to replace it more often — every 3 to 4 months. If you rarely use the dispenser, you might stretch it to 9 months, but the filter will lose effectiveness over time.

Some Samsung models have a filter indicator light on the fridge display that turns on when the filter is due. If yours has one, pay attention to it — it is a reliable signal that the filter needs changing. If your model does not have an indicator, mark your calendar when you install a new filter so you remember when to change it again.

What filter cartridge to buy

Samsung makes several filter models, and buying the wrong one wastes money and may not fit. Use your model number to find the right cartridge. The most common Samsung filters are the DA29-00003G, DA29-00003A, and DA97-08006A, but your model may use a different one.

You can find the correct filter by entering your model number on the Samsung website or calling Samsung customer service with your model number. You can also buy filters from appliance retailers, big-box stores, and online marketplaces — just make sure the listing says it is compatible with your exact model number. Genuine Samsung filters cost between $30 and $50, though third-party filters that meet the same standards are often cheaper.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I do not flush the water line after changing the filter?

The water will taste off and may be cloudy because air pockets and loose carbon particles are still in the line. Flushing for 2 to 3 minutes clears this out. If you skip this step, the taste and clarity improve on their own over a few hours as you use the dispenser, but flushing speeds it up.

Can I use a third-party filter instead of a Samsung filter?

Yes, as long as it is designed for your exact Samsung model and meets NSF standards for water filtration. Third-party filters often cost less and work just as well. Check the product listing to confirm it fits your model number before you buy.

My filter is stuck and will not twist out. What do I do?

Make sure you are twisting counterclockwise (to the left), not clockwise. If it still will not budge, wrap a dry cloth around the cartridge for better grip and try again with steady, firm pressure. If it remains stuck, stop and contact Samsung support — forcing it may damage the housing.

How do I know which location my filter is in if I cannot find it?

Check your refrigerator's manual — it shows a diagram of where the filter sits in your model. You can also enter your model number on the Samsung website and look at the parts diagram. If you still cannot locate it, call Samsung customer service with your model number and they will tell you exactly where to look.